Development Desk

In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive into the critical role of counseling as a related service under IDEA and how it supports students’ access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). We unpack when counseling is provided by schools as part of an IEP, what it typically looks like, and how it’s different from therapy outside of school.

Plus, we explore key indicators that a student’s needs may go beyond the school’s scope—like signs of trauma, clinical anxiety, or chronic mental health conditions—and how to collaborate with families to seek outside support. Whether you’re a school psychologist, educator, or parent, this episode breaks down the nuances of mental health in schools, related services, and community-based counseling in a practical, accessible way.

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In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive deep into the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)—a cornerstone of special education under IDEA. We explore why LRE matters for student outcomes, what critical data should be reviewed during placement decisions, and how educators and families can effectively advocate for inclusive practices. Whether you’re a school psychologist, teacher, or parent, you’ll learn how to interpret evaluation data, understand the continuum of services, and participate meaningfully in IEP meetings to support every child’s right to learn in the most inclusive setting possible.

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In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we dive deep into the legal and ethical obligations under Child Find, the federal requirement ensuring that all children with disabilities are identified, located, and evaluated in a timely manner. We break down the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) findings against Texas since 2018, which led to a statewide Corrective Action Plan (CAP).

Using Austin ISD as a powerful case study, we highlight the significant evaluation backlogs, delays in Full and Individual Evaluations (FIEs), and barriers to IEP eligibility and services. We explore real-world examples of how thousands of students have been impacted—especially those referred for dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and emotional/behavioral needs.

Whether you’re a school psychologist, educator, or parent navigating special education in Texas, this episode offers vital insights into systemic challenges, legal mandates, and advocacy strategies.

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In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we break down the critical components of procedural safeguards under the IDEA, with a special focus on parental consent, Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs), and unilateral private school placements. Whether you’re a school psychologist, educator, or parent navigating special education services, this episode gives you the tools to understand your rights and responsibilities when it comes to evaluations, discipline, and placement decisions.

We cover:

• When parental consent is required—and when it’s not
• What triggers a Manifestation Determination Review and how to ensure it’s conducted legally and ethically
• The difference between school-initiated vs. parent-initiated private placements
• What happens when parents place their child in a private school without district consent
• Key procedural timelines, common mistakes, and strategies for compliance and advocacy

Packed with real-world examples and actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in special education decision-making.

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What children eat and how much they move each day can have a profound impact on their ability to focus, regulate emotions, and succeed academically. In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we explore the powerful connection between nutrition, exercise, and student learning and behavior—and how small changes can lead to big improvements in the classroom and beyond.

We’ll break down:

• How nutrition affects brain function, attention, and emotional regulation—including the impact of sugar, processed foods, and nutrient deficiencies.

• The role of physical activity in cognitive performance and behavior, from increasing focus to reducing anxiety and hyperactivity.

• Practical ways parents and educators can support better habits, even with limited time, resources, or picky eaters.

• The importance of movement breaks, hydration, and balanced meals in setting students up for success.

From breakfast choices to recess policies, small changes in daily routines can make a significant difference in a child’s ability to learn and thrive. Tune in for research-backed insights and easy-to-implement strategies to support students’ overall well-being!

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Every classroom is filled with students who have unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. As educators, how do we meet the diverse needs of our students while maintaining a structured, engaging, and productive learning environment for all? In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we break down practical, research-backed classroom strategies that support all learners while ensuring that expectations and routines create a space where every student can succeed.

We’ll explore:

• Universal design for learning (UDL) principles that help create accessible and engaging lessons for all students.

• Classroom management strategies that promote respect, accountability, and consistency.

• How to differentiate instruction without overwhelming yourself or other students.

• Balancing flexibility with firm expectations to create an environment that is both structured and responsive to students’ needs.

• Strategies for addressing behavior and emotional regulation while keeping the focus on learning.

Whether you’re a new teacher looking for guidance or a seasoned educator refining your approach, this episode is packed with practical tools and strategies to help you foster an inclusive, balanced, and effective classroom. Tune in now!

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Setting boundaries as a parent can feel challenging—how do you provide warmth and connection while still maintaining structure and expectations? In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we explore authoritative parenting, the research-backed approach that blends high expectations with responsiveness and warmth to promote healthy emotional and social development.

We’ll discuss:

• What makes authoritative parenting different from authoritarian or permissive styles and why research shows it leads to the best long-term outcomes for children.

• How setting clear boundaries fosters confidence, independence, and emotional security in kids.

• Practical ways to enforce rules and limits with warmth, including setting expectations, using natural consequences, and maintaining open communication.

• How to handle pushback and challenges without resorting to punitive measures or giving in.

Parenting isn’t about being rigid or overly lenient—it’s about finding the balance between love and limits. Tune in to learn actionable strategies that will help you cultivate a household where boundaries are respected, emotions are validated, and your child thrives.

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Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience, and for children, it can look very different than it does in adults. In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we explore how children experience and express grief, what parents and educators should look for, and how to provide the support they need to process loss in a healthy way.

We’ll discuss:

• How grief manifests in children—from emotional outbursts and regression to withdrawal and physical symptoms.

• The different ways grief can show up at various ages, including toddlers, school-aged children, and teens.

• How to support a grieving child, including age-appropriate conversations, emotional validation, and when to seek professional help.

Loss can come in many forms—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the loss of a pet, a divorce, or even a major life change like moving to a new home. Knowing how to navigate grief with children can help them build resilience and emotional well-being.

Join us as we provide practical strategies, real-life insights, and expert-backed guidance to help children process grief in a way that fosters healing and growth. Tune in now!

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In this episode of Brainwaves & Backpacks, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked yet essential components of a child’s well-being—sleep. From improved focus and emotional regulation to long-term cognitive and physical health, sleep plays a critical role in a child’s development. But how much is enough? And what can parents do to set their children up for success?

We’ll break down:

• The short-term benefits of good sleep, including better attention, memory, and emotional stability.

• The long-term impact, such as stronger immune function, healthy growth, and reduced risk of anxiety and depression.

• Practical, research-backed strategies to improve your child’s sleep habits—including bedtime routines, screen time limits, and small environmental tweaks.

If your child struggles with getting to bed on time or staying asleep, this episode is for you! Tune in to learn simple but effective ways to create healthier sleep habits and set your child up for lifelong success.

Listen now and start making small changes that lead to big results!

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we take a deep dive into the complex process of identifying Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) in schools. We break down how school teams analyze data to determine whether a student truly has a learning disability and why getting it right matters. Misidentification can have lasting consequences, from unnecessary special education placement to lowered expectations and lost opportunities. We discuss the nuances of evaluation, the importance of looking at all data points (not just test scores), and how parents and educators can work together to ensure students receive the right support. Whether you’re a parent navigating the special education process or a professional involved in student evaluations, this episode provides valuable insights into making data-driven, student-centered decisions.

Tune in for an important conversation on why accuracy in SLD identification is critical and how we can prevent both over- and under-identification in our schools

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